After unveiling it last July in Hiroshima, Japan, Mazda is getting set for the global debut of the Mazda2 sedan version at the upcoming Thailand International Motor Expo on November 28. The Mazda2 is the brand's subcompact model though it is known as the Demio in the Japanese market where it was originally launched.

According to a report by the Bangkok Post, Mazda is brining in the sedan version of the 2 sporting a 1.5L SkyActiv Diesel engine that produces 106 PS and with fuel consumption of 26.4 kilometers per liter under controlled conditions and using a six-speed automatic transmission with the Start/Stop feature activated.

The Mazda2 SkyActiv Diesel will be the first diesel-fed subcompact to be classified an eco car in Thailand. It comes right on the heels of a regulatory change which updated the displacemet ceiling for diesel powered eco-cars from 1400cc to 1500cc. A petrol model will follow soon after.

The Mazda Demio was just recently crowned as Japan's Car of the Year.

With motorists in Bangkok and other cities in Thailand getting the Mazda 2 powered by a 1.5L SkyActiv Diesel engine by January next year, when do you think Berjaya Auto Philippines (Mazda’s exclusive distributor in the country) will make it available here?

Good Design 2014 Award

The Mazda Demio/Mazda2 recently received the Good Design Gold Award (Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry Minister's Award), sponsored by public interest incorporated foundation, Japan Institute of Design Promotion.

"Mazda has taken all of the KODO design from the last few years and condensed it into this compact body. The tense undulations of the body surfaces remind one of a wild animal in pursuit of prey, and every line expresses a sense of speed. The exterior is so dynamic it is hard to believe this form was achieved on a small city car. Not only does the quality feel of the interior exceed the standards of the class, the natural driving position made possible by moving the front wheels forward means you never feel like you are driving a small car. Along with the SKYACTIV clean diesel engine this model lets you enjoy the most fundamental pleasure of the automobile-moving your own hands and feet to get where you want to go-with all five senses," said the Japan Institute of Design Promotion.

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